How to use kerosene to get rid of lice? - briefly
Apply a modest amount of kerosene to a cotton pad, spread it over the hair and scalp, cover with a towel, and leave for about 30 minutes before washing thoroughly with shampoo and warm water. This method kills the parasites but must be followed by a complete rinse to remove any residue and prevent skin irritation.
How to use kerosene to get rid of lice? - in detail
Kerosene can eliminate head‑lice infestations, but the method carries significant health risks and must be executed with strict safety measures.
First, confirm that the individual has no skin conditions, open wounds, or respiratory sensitivities. Conduct a patch test: apply a single drop of kerosene to a small area of the scalp, wait ten minutes, and observe for irritation or allergic reaction. Abort the procedure if any redness, itching, or swelling occurs.
Prepare the workspace. Use a well‑ventilated room, lay down a disposable plastic sheet, and wear protective gloves, goggles, and a mask rated for organic vapors. Keep flammable materials away from the area.
The application process:
- Measure 30 ml of clear, low‑sulfur kerosene. Do not use dyed or scented variants.
- Using a clean cotton ball or applicator, saturate the hair from the roots to the tips, ensuring thorough coverage of the scalp. Avoid excessive pooling; the liquid should coat each strand without dripping.
- Allow the fluid to remain on the hair for 5–7 minutes. During this interval, the solvent penetrates the lice exoskeleton, causing rapid desiccation.
- After the exposure period, rinse the hair with warm water and a mild, non‑oil‑based shampoo. Perform a second rinse to remove residual kerosene.
- Dry the hair with a clean towel; do not use a hair dryer, as heat may volatilize remaining kerosene and increase inhalation risk.
Post‑treatment steps:
- Inspect the scalp and comb through with a fine‑toothed lice comb to remove dead insects and nits. Repeat combing daily for one week.
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items that may have contacted the kerosene‑treated hair in hot water (≥60 °C) or by using a high‑heat dryer cycle.
- Store any remaining kerosene in a sealed container, away from heat sources, and label it clearly.
Safety reminders:
- Do not apply kerosene near open flames, sparks, or electrical switches.
- Keep children and pets out of the treatment area until the hair is fully rinsed and dried.
- If symptoms such as dizziness, coughing, or severe skin irritation develop, cease use immediately and seek medical attention.
Given the toxicity of kerosene, many health authorities advise alternative treatments—such as permethrin lotion, dimethicone‑based products, or manual removal with a lice comb—before considering this solvent. The detailed protocol above should be reserved for situations where conventional options are unavailable and only after thorough risk assessment.